Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A communication system comprising: a data requesting component; a first data transfer component; a first data link between the data requesting component and the first data transfer component; a second data transfer component; a second data link between the first data transfer component and the second data transfer component, the second data link including an acoustic link; a data source component; and a third data link between the data source component and the second data transfer component; wherein the second data link has a higher latency than at least one of the first data link and the third data link, and wherein the communication system is configurable to operate in a transparent mode, in which data is transferred to the data requesting component from the data source component via the third data link, the second data transfer component, the second data link, the first data transfer component, and the first data link using a request-response protocol, and a data streaming mode, in which the second data transfer component is configured to operate as a data pump to continuously obtain data from the data source component via the third data link and to continuously transfer the data to the first data transfer component via the second data link without using the request-response protocol, and the first data transfer component is configured to store the transferred data and to transfer the stored data to the data requesting component via the first data link upon receiving a request for the stored data from the data requesting component.
The communication system is designed for efficient data transfer in environments where latency and bandwidth constraints exist, particularly in scenarios involving high-latency links such as underwater acoustic communication. The system includes a data requesting component, two data transfer components, and a data source component connected via multiple data links. The first data transfer component connects to the data requesting component via a low-latency first data link, while the second data transfer component connects to the first via a high-latency second data link, which may be an acoustic link. The data source component is linked to the second data transfer component via a third data link, which may also have lower latency than the second data link. The system operates in two modes: transparent and data streaming. In transparent mode, data is transferred from the data source to the requesting component using a request-response protocol, passing through all components and links sequentially. In data streaming mode, the second data transfer component acts as a data pump, continuously fetching data from the source and sending it to the first data transfer component via the high-latency link. The first data transfer component stores this data and provides it to the requesting component upon request, reducing the need for repeated high-latency transmissions. This approach optimizes data transfer efficiency in systems with significant latency disparities between links.
2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the first data transfer component is configured to: intercept a request from the data requesting component for data from the data source component, and if the data requested by the data requesting component is stored by the first data transfer component then the stored data is transferred to the data requesting component via the first data link, or if the data requested by the data requesting component is not stored by the first data transfer component then the system processes the request in the transparent mode.
A data transfer system is designed to optimize data retrieval in distributed computing environments by reducing latency and improving efficiency. The system includes a data transfer component that acts as an intermediary between a data requesting component and a data source component. This intermediary component is configured to intercept requests for data before they reach the data source. If the requested data is already stored in the intermediary component's cache, it is immediately transferred to the requesting component via a dedicated data link, bypassing the need to access the original data source. This cached data transfer reduces latency and conserves network resources. If the requested data is not cached, the system operates in a transparent mode, where the request is forwarded to the data source component, and the response is then relayed back to the requesting component. The transparent mode ensures that data is still accessible even when it is not cached, maintaining system functionality while optimizing performance for frequently accessed data. The system dynamically balances between cached and direct data retrieval to enhance overall efficiency.
3. The system according to claim 2 , wherein the request is intercepted by recognising an address of the data source component in the request.
A system for managing data requests in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently routing and processing data requests between different components. The system includes a request interception mechanism that identifies and processes requests before they reach their intended destination. Specifically, the system intercepts a request by recognizing an address of the data source component within the request. This allows the system to analyze, modify, or redirect the request based on predefined rules or policies, ensuring proper handling of data access and improving system performance. The interception mechanism may involve parsing the request to extract the address of the data source, comparing it against a list of known addresses, and applying appropriate actions such as filtering, logging, or forwarding the request to an alternative destination. This approach enhances security, reduces latency, and optimizes resource utilization by preventing unnecessary or unauthorized access to data sources. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple components interact dynamically, requiring intelligent request management to maintain efficiency and reliability.
4. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the data requesting component is configured to operate as a master and the first data transfer component is configured to operate as a slave to the data requesting component in the data steaming mode.
A system for data streaming involves a data requesting component and a first data transfer component. The data requesting component operates as a master device, initiating and controlling data transfer operations. The first data transfer component functions as a slave device, responding to requests from the master and providing data as needed. In data streaming mode, the master component sends commands to the slave component to retrieve or transmit data, ensuring synchronized and efficient data flow. The system may include additional components, such as a second data transfer component, which can also operate in a master-slave configuration to further enhance data transfer capabilities. The master component manages the timing and sequencing of data requests, while the slave components execute the commands and return the requested data. This configuration allows for scalable and reliable data streaming in applications requiring high-speed or real-time data transfer. The system may be used in various industries, including telecommunications, computing, and industrial automation, where efficient data streaming is critical.
5. The system according to claim 4 , wherein the second data transfer component is configured to operate as a master and the data source component is configured to operate as a slave to the second data transfer component in the data steaming mode.
This invention relates to a data transfer system designed to optimize communication between a data source and a data transfer component in a streaming mode. The system addresses inefficiencies in traditional data streaming where synchronization and control between components can lead to delays or errors. The invention improves this by defining distinct roles for the components during data streaming. Specifically, the second data transfer component operates as a master, taking control of the data transfer process, while the data source component functions as a slave, responding to commands from the master. This master-slave configuration ensures synchronized and efficient data streaming by allowing the master to dictate the timing, format, and flow of data, while the slave provides the necessary data in response. The system may also include additional components, such as a first data transfer component that operates in a different mode, ensuring flexibility in data handling. The master-slave relationship in the streaming mode reduces latency and improves reliability by eliminating conflicts in data transfer control. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time or high-speed data streaming, such as telecommunications, multimedia processing, or industrial automation.
6. The system according to claim 1 , wherein data transferred includes an indicator designating whether the data is for transfer using the transparent mode or the data streaming mode.
A system for data transfer between devices includes a mechanism to designate whether data is transmitted in transparent mode or data streaming mode. The system enables communication between a first device and a second device, where the first device processes data for transmission and the second device receives and processes the data. The system supports two distinct data transfer modes: transparent mode, where data is transmitted without modification or buffering, and data streaming mode, where data is buffered and may be processed or modified before transmission. The system includes a controller that determines the appropriate transfer mode based on the type of data being transmitted. The controller inserts an indicator into the data stream to specify whether the data should be handled in transparent mode or data streaming mode. This allows the receiving device to correctly interpret and process the incoming data according to the designated mode. The system ensures efficient and accurate data transfer by dynamically selecting the appropriate mode based on data characteristics, such as real-time requirements or processing needs. This approach optimizes performance and reliability in data communication between devices.
7. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the request-response protocol includes a MODBUS remote terminal unit (RTU) serial communications protocol.
A system for industrial automation and control incorporates a request-response protocol to facilitate communication between devices. The system includes a controller and at least one remote terminal unit (RTU) that exchanges data using a serial communications protocol. The protocol enables the controller to send requests to the RTU and receive corresponding responses, allowing for monitoring and control of industrial processes. The system is designed to address challenges in industrial environments where reliable and efficient communication between distributed devices is essential. The request-response protocol ensures data integrity and synchronization, supporting real-time monitoring and control operations. The system may include additional features such as data validation, error handling, and support for multiple communication channels to enhance robustness and flexibility. The use of a serial communications protocol, such as MODBUS RTU, enables compatibility with existing industrial equipment and standards, simplifying integration into existing infrastructure. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control and monitoring of industrial processes, such as manufacturing, energy management, and process automation. The protocol's structured format ensures efficient data exchange, reducing latency and improving overall system performance. The system may also include security measures to protect against unauthorized access and data tampering, ensuring secure communication in industrial environments.
8. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the first data link and/or the third data link includes an RS485 link.
The system relates to industrial communication networks, specifically addressing the need for reliable and efficient data transmission in industrial automation environments. Industrial systems often require robust communication links to ensure real-time data exchange between controllers, sensors, and other devices. Traditional communication methods may suffer from signal degradation, interference, or limited bandwidth, which can disrupt operations in critical applications. The system includes multiple data links for transmitting data between devices. At least one of these links, such as the first or third data link, incorporates an RS485 interface. RS485 is a widely used differential signaling standard for serial communication, known for its ability to transmit data over long distances with minimal signal loss and strong resistance to electrical noise. This makes it particularly suitable for industrial settings where devices may be spread across large areas or exposed to harsh electrical conditions. The system may also include additional components, such as a controller, a sensor, or a user interface, depending on the specific configuration. The RS485 link ensures that data is transmitted with high reliability, supporting applications that require precise timing and error-free communication. By integrating RS485 into the system, the invention enhances data integrity and reduces the risk of transmission failures, improving overall system performance in industrial automation.
9. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the first and/or the second data transfer component includes a first set of transducers and a second set of transducers for implementing the acoustic link.
The invention relates to a system for establishing an acoustic communication link between two data transfer components. The system addresses the challenge of reliable data transmission in environments where traditional wireless or wired communication methods are impractical, such as underwater or in high-interference settings. The system leverages acoustic signals to facilitate data exchange, overcoming limitations posed by electromagnetic interference or signal attenuation in such environments. The system includes a first data transfer component and a second data transfer component, each equipped with transducers for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals. The first data transfer component contains a first set of transducers and a second set of transducers, which work together to establish and maintain the acoustic link. The transducers convert electrical signals into acoustic waves for transmission and convert received acoustic waves back into electrical signals for processing. This dual-set configuration enhances reliability by providing redundancy and improving signal clarity, ensuring robust data transfer even in challenging conditions. The system may also include additional components, such as signal processing units, to optimize transmission quality and error correction. The acoustic link enables secure and efficient data exchange, making it suitable for applications in underwater communication, industrial monitoring, or other environments where conventional methods are ineffective.
10. A method of operating a communication system of claim 1 , the method comprising: causing the communication system to operate in either the transparent mode or the data streaming mode.
A communication system is designed to handle data transmission between devices, addressing challenges in efficiently managing different types of data flows. The system operates in two distinct modes: a transparent mode and a data streaming mode. In the transparent mode, data is transmitted without modification, ensuring compatibility with legacy systems and protocols. This mode is particularly useful for applications requiring minimal processing overhead or strict adherence to existing communication standards. In the data streaming mode, the system processes and optimizes data before transmission, improving efficiency, reducing latency, or enhancing reliability. This mode is ideal for applications where data integrity, speed, or bandwidth optimization is critical. The system dynamically selects the appropriate mode based on factors such as data type, network conditions, or user preferences, ensuring optimal performance across various scenarios. The method of operating the system involves configuring it to switch between these modes as needed, allowing seamless adaptation to different communication requirements. This approach enhances flexibility, compatibility, and performance in diverse networking environments.
11. A communication system data transfer component comprising: a first communication interface including a first data link having a higher latency than a second data link in the communication system; a second communication interface including the second data link in the communication system; and a processor configured to operate in a transparent mode, in which data is transferred via the first and the second communication interfaces using a request-response protocol, and a data streaming mode, in which the data transfer component is configured to operate as a data pump to continuously obtain data from a first communication system component via the second communication interface without using the request-response protocol, and to continuously transfer the obtained data to a second communication system component via the first communication interface without using the request-response protocol, wherein the second data link includes an electronic serial communication link, and wherein the first data link includes an acoustic link.
The communication system data transfer component addresses the challenge of efficiently transferring data between components in a communication system where different data links have varying latencies. The system includes a first communication interface with a high-latency data link, such as an acoustic link, and a second communication interface with a low-latency data link, such as an electronic serial communication link. A processor controls the component's operation in two modes: transparent mode and data streaming mode. In transparent mode, data is transferred between system components using a request-response protocol through both interfaces. In data streaming mode, the component acts as a data pump, continuously obtaining data from a first system component via the low-latency link and transferring it to a second system component via the high-latency link without using the request-response protocol. This approach optimizes data transfer efficiency by leveraging the appropriate link for each mode, reducing latency where possible while maintaining compatibility with high-latency links when necessary. The system is particularly useful in environments where different communication channels have significant latency differences, such as underwater or satellite-based networks.
12. The system according to claim 11 , wherein the request-response protocol comprises a MODBUS remote terminal unit (RTU) serial communications protocol.
A system for industrial automation and control utilizes a request-response protocol to facilitate communication between a master device and one or more remote terminal units (RTUs). The system includes a master device configured to send requests to the RTUs and receive responses, enabling data exchange and control operations. The RTUs are designed to process these requests, execute necessary actions, and return responses to the master device. The communication protocol employed is the MODBUS RTU serial communications protocol, which is widely used in industrial environments for reliable and standardized data transmission. This protocol ensures efficient and secure communication between the master device and the RTUs, supporting various industrial automation tasks such as monitoring, control, and data acquisition. The system enhances operational efficiency by enabling seamless interaction between the master device and the RTUs, leveraging the MODBUS RTU protocol's robustness and compatibility with existing industrial infrastructure.
13. A communication system data transfer component comprising: a first communication interface including a first data link having a higher latency than a second data link in the communication system, the first data link including an acoustic link; a second communication interface including the second data link in the communication system; and a processor configured to operate in a transparent mode, in which data is transferred via the first and the second communication interfaces using a request-response protocol, and a data streaming mode, in which the data transfer component is configured to operate as a data pump to continuously obtain data received via the first communication interface without using the response-request protocol, and to continuously transfer the stored data via the second communication interface to a data requesting component without using the response-request protocol.
A communication system data transfer component is designed to handle data transmission between a high-latency acoustic link and a lower-latency data link. The system includes a first communication interface connected to the high-latency acoustic link and a second communication interface connected to the lower-latency data link. A processor manages two operational modes: a transparent mode and a data streaming mode. In transparent mode, data is transferred between the interfaces using a request-response protocol, ensuring bidirectional communication with acknowledgment. In data streaming mode, the component acts as a data pump, continuously receiving data from the acoustic link without requiring a response and forwarding it to the requesting component via the lower-latency link without using the request-response protocol. This design optimizes data transfer efficiency by adapting to the latency characteristics of the links, particularly useful in scenarios where acoustic communication is involved, such as underwater or other high-latency environments. The system ensures reliable data flow while minimizing protocol overhead in streaming applications.
14. The system according to claim 13 , wherein the request-response protocol comprises a MODBUS remote terminal unit (RTU) serial communications protocol.
A system for industrial automation and control includes a communication interface that facilitates data exchange between a master device and one or more remote terminal units (RTUs) using a request-response protocol. The system is designed to address challenges in industrial environments where reliable and efficient communication between control devices and field instruments is critical. The communication interface supports various request-response protocols, including the MODBUS RTU serial communications protocol, which is widely used in industrial automation for its simplicity and compatibility with many devices. The MODBUS RTU protocol enables the master device to send requests to RTUs and receive structured responses, allowing for remote monitoring and control of industrial processes. The system ensures robust communication by handling protocol-specific formatting, error checking, and data validation, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime in industrial applications. The use of MODBUS RTU enhances interoperability with existing industrial equipment, making the system adaptable to diverse automation environments. The system may also include additional features such as protocol conversion, data logging, and diagnostic capabilities to further optimize performance and reliability in industrial control systems.
15. The system according to claim 13 , wherein the first data link includes an electronic serial communication link.
A system for data transmission includes a first data link that facilitates communication between components of the system. The first data link is specifically configured as an electronic serial communication link, enabling sequential data transfer between devices. This serial communication link may be used to transmit control signals, sensor data, or other information between interconnected modules. The system may also include additional data links, such as a second data link, which could be a parallel communication link or another type of connection, depending on the system's requirements. The serial communication link ensures efficient and reliable data exchange, particularly in applications where high-speed or real-time data transfer is necessary. This configuration is useful in embedded systems, industrial automation, or other environments where multiple devices must communicate with minimal latency. The use of a serial link reduces wiring complexity and improves signal integrity compared to parallel communication methods. The system may further include processing units, memory modules, or other components that interact through these data links to perform specific functions. The serial communication link may adhere to industry standards such as UART, SPI, or I2C, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Unknown
March 24, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.